Three coaches whose careers were marked by longevity, loyalty and success have been chosen as this year's recipients for the Lapchick Character Award. Hall of Famer Pete Carril of Princeton, Jim Phelan of Mount St. Mary's and Debbie Ryan of Virginia will receive the award Nov. 17 at Madison Square Garden, it was announced Thursday. Each spent at least 29 years at one school and they combined to win more than 2,000 games while overseeing programs considered as strong academically as they were successful on the court. The award is presented by a group that includes Joe Lapchick biographer and former player Gus Alfieri. It recognizes those who have shown the character traits of the late Hall of Famer who coached at St. John's and with the New York Knicks. Read more: http://espn.go.com/mens-college-bas...jim-phelan-debbie-ryan-receive-lapchick-award
